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NINETEENTH ANNUALNATIONAL CONVENTION
The American LegionNEW YORK CITY
Seventeenth Annual National Convention
AMERICAN LESION AUXILIARY
Eighteenth Annual Promenade Nationale
LA SOCIETE DES
QUARANTE HOMMES ET HUIT CHEVAUX
Sixteenth Annual Marche Nationale
LA BOUTIQUE DES
HUIT CHAPEAUX ET QUARANTE
FEMMES
SEPTEMBER, 20, 21, 22, 231937
Preamble to the Constitution
..of the American Legion...
OR God and country , we associate
f fMJ ourselves together for the follow-
w ing purposes : To uphold and de-
fend the Constitution of the United
States of America; to maintain law and order;
to foster and perpetuate a one hundred per
cent Americanism; to preserve the memories
and incidents of our association in the Great
War; to inculcate a sense of individual obliga-
tion to the community, state and nation; to
combat the autocracy of both the classes and
the masses; to make right the master of might;
to promote peace and good will on earth; to
safeguard and transmit to posterity the prin-
ciples of justice, freedom and democracy; to
consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by
our devotion to mutual helpfulness.
NATIONAL VICE COMMANDERS, THE AMERICAN LEGIONTop left: John Crowley. Top right: J. Fred Johnson, Jr. Center: Salvatore Capodice. Lower left: LeonardSisk. Lower right: Leo Tenney.
I
NATIONAL OFFICERS, THE AMERICAN LEGION
Top left: Ralph B. Gregg, National Judge Advocate. Top right: John Ruddick, National Treasurer. Center:
Frank E. Samuel, National Adjutant. Lower, left to right: Rev. Bryan H. Keathley, National Chaplain;
Thomas M. Owen, Jr., National Historian; Vic Mackenzie, Director of Conventions.
>
It has been the privilege of our Corporation to plan and effect arrangements for the
comfort and entertainment of those attending the 19th Annual Convention of the
American Legion and it is our hope that the culmination of our efforts will have pro-
vided a program that meets with complete favor by the officers and members of the
American Legion, the Auxiliary, the Sons of the American Legion and the families of
all who are in attendance at the Convention.May your visit to our City be a happy and memorable one.
JAMES G. HARBORD, PresidentThe American Legion 1937 Convention Corporation of New York City
I
OFFICERS AND DIRECTORSTHE AMERICAN LEGION 1937 CONVENTION CORPORATION
Top, left to right: Hon. Edward N. Schieberling, Vice President, Director, and Chairman Dept. LiaisonCommittee; William J. Pedrick, Vice President, Director, Chairman Executive Committee, Chairman BadgeCommittee; Maj. Gen. William N. Haskell, Vice President, Director, Chairman Parade Committee.
2nd Row: Hon. Douglas I. McKay, Vice President, Director, Chairman Special Events Committee; Robert E.Condon, Executive Vice President and Director; Hon. Edward J. Neary, Vice President and Director.
3rd Row: Hon. Joseph Clark Baldwin, III, Vice President, Director, Chairman Dist. Guest Committee; Mor-timer N. Buckner, Treasurer and Director; Maurice Stember, Secretary and Director; Dr. George JLawrence, Vice President, Director, Chairman Sons of American Legion Committee.
Bottom: Hon. F. Trubee Davison, Vice President and Director.
DIRECTORS, THE AMERICAN LEGION 1937 CONVENTION CORPORATION
Top three: Stanley H. Howe, Lithgow Osborne, John Dwight Sullivan.
Left three, top to bottom: Robert E. Minnich, Abraham J. Rosenbloom, Oswald W. Knauth.
Right three, top to bottom: George M. Clancy, Arthur Price, Edward A. Vosseler.
Center: Jeremiah Francis Cross, Department Commander, N. Y.
Center group, (upper) left to right: S. Sloan Colt, William J. Donovan.
Center group, (lower) left to right: George W. Sweeney, John R. Kilpatrick.
Bottom three: Jacob Ark, Charles Hahn, Jr., Harry B. Ahrens.
k Top three: John Osowski, Director; Hon. Frank L. Polk, Director; Maj. Gen. John F. O’Ryan, Director.
I Left three, top to bottom: William T. Dewart, Director; Arthur F. Duffy, Director; Richard B. O’Connor," Director.
Right three, top to bottom: Charles E. Murphy, Director; Frank Kallin, Director; William Lamb, Director.
Center: Hon. Alfred E. Smith, Chairman, Entertainment.
Center group, upper, left to right: Frank A. McKowne, Director; Frank H. Ritter, Director,
k Center group, lower, left to right: Mrs. William H. Corwith, Miss Amy F. Patmore.
P Bottom three: Major General John J. Byrne, Committee Chairman, Program; Frank J. Bolen, CommitteeChairman, Registration; Lawrence A. McNally, Committee Chairman, Contests.
DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEEMENTHE AMERICAN LEGION 1937 CONVENTION CORPORATION
COMMITTEE CHAIRMENTHE AMERICAN LEGION 1937 CONVENTION CORPORATION OF NEW YORK CITY
Top: John Mangan, Sightseeing; Pelham St. George Bissell, 40 and 8; James A. Brewer, National CommandersDinner.
2nd row: Joseph H. Freedlander, Decorations; Edward J. Clark, Grand Stand; Matthew W. Del Gaudio,Information; Robert W. Sparks, Halls and Seating.
Bottom: Dr. John Duff, First Aid and Hospitalization; Hon. Henri Schwab, Concessions; James V. Demarest,Publications,
OFFICIAL PROGRAM
Nineteenth Annual National Convention
THE AMERICAN LEGION
September 20-21-22-23, 1937
NEW YORK, N. Y.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 1937
9 :00 a. m.—Publication and Publicity Coordination Committee, Hotel
Pennsylvania.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 1937
9 :00 a. m.—Resolutions Assignment Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
10:00 a. m.—National Defense Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 1937
9 :00 a. m.—Sons of The American Legion Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
9 :00 a. m.—Committee on Resolutions and Policies, Hotel Pennsylvania.
9:00 a. m.—Committee on Proposed Amendments to National Constitution
and Bylaws, Hotel Pennsylvania.
9 :00 a. m.—FIDAC Study Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
9 :00 a. m.—Contests Supervisory Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
2:00 p. m.—National Finance Committee, Hotel Pennsjdvania.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1937
9:00 a. m.—National Executive Committee, Hotel Pennsylvania.
1 :00 p. m.—Committee on Credentials, Hotel Pennsylvania.
1:15 p. m.—Committee on Permanent Organization, Hotel Pennsylvania,
1 :30 p. m.—Committee on Rules, Hotel Pennsylvania.
2:00 p. m.—Child Welfare Conference, Hotel Pennsylvania,
8:00 p. m.—Memorial Concert, Madison Square Garden,
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AMERICAN LEGION (Continued)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1937
Joint session—The American Legion and the American
Legion Auxiliary
PLACE: MADISON SQUARE GARDEN
9 :00 a. m.—MusicMusicians Post No. 394 Band,
St. Louis, Missouri
Commonwealth Edison Post No. 118
Drum and Bugle Corps,
Chicago* Illinois
9:30 a. m.—Call to Order—Harry W. Colmery, National Commander.Invocation—Rev. Bryan H. Keathley, National Chaplain.
Silent Tribute—Laying of wreath on Tomb of UnknownSoldier in Arlington National Cemetery, by National Pil-
grimage Committee, The American Legion.
Advancement of Colors.
Solo—
“Star Spangled Banner”—Official Soloist.
Call of Convention—Frank E. Samuel, National Adjutant.
Addresses of Welcome:His Excellency, Herbert H. Lehman, The Governor of
New York.
His Honor, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, The Mayor of NewYork City.
Major General James G. Harbord, President
,
The Ameri-
can Legion 1937 Convention Corporation of N. Y. C.
George M. Clancy, 1936-1937 Commander, Dept, of NewYork, The American Legion.
Response: John Quinn, Past National Commander.Presentation of Medallion to Chief Executive of the City of
Cleveland, Ohio, in which previous National Convention
was held, by Honorable J. Monroe Johnson.
10:15 a. m.—Committee Reports:
(a) Permanent Organization
(b) Credentials
(c) Rules
MEMORIAL SERVICES—Rev. Bryan H. Keathley,
National Chaplain.
“There Is No Death”—O’Hara—Official Soloist.
Silent Prayer.
Taps.
Greetings
:
Mrs. O. W. Hahn, National President, American Legion
Auxiliary.
Harry E. Ransom, Chef de Chemin de Fer, Forty and
Eight.
/National Champions
14
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AMERICAN LEGION (Continued)
Presentation of Distinguished Guests:
Report of National Commander:Addresses
:
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
1 :00 p. m.—Conference of Department Judge Advocates, Hotel Pennsyl-
vania.
1 :00 p. m.—Luncheon meeting for Department Historians, Hotel NewYorker.
2 :00 p. m.—Conference of Department Graves Registration Officers, Hotel
Pennsylvania.
3 :00 p. m.—Informal meeting of General Members of National Child Wel-fare Committee and Department Child Welfare Chairmen,
Hotel Pennsylvania.
4 :00 p. m.—Meetings of all Convention Committees.
5 :00 p. m.—National Commander’s Reception to Distinguished Guests,
Hotel Pennsylvania.
6:00 p. m.—National Commander’s Dinner for Distinguished Guests, Hotel
Pennsylvania.
7 :00 p. m.—National Drum and Bugle Corps, Championship Contest—Polo
Grounds.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1937
7:15 a. m.—Breakfast to National Commander Harry W. Colmery by the
Empire State Club, Hon. Alfred E. Smith, President.
9 :00 a. m.—Official Convention Parade.
Meetings of Convention Committees.
(These meetings will be held at time agreed upon at previous
meetings.
)
4:00 p. m.—Governor of New York State Reception to the National Com-mander and other members of Reviewing Party.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
PLACE: METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE8 :30 a. m.—Music.
9:00 a. m.—Call to Order—Harry W. Colmery, National Commander.Advancement of Colors.
Invocation—Rev. Bryan H. Keathley, National Chaplain.
Committee Reports:
Constitutional Amendments (First Reading)
Presentation of Distinguished Guests.
Greetings
:
Addresses
:
Convention Committee Reports:
Finance
AmericanismChild WelfareNational Defense
15
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AMERICAN LEGION (Continued)
Foreign Relations
Internal Organization
Legislation
Rehabilitation
Resolutions
National Convention Liaison Committee(Standing Committee)
Education of War Orphans
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
8:00 p. m.—Midnight Alarm by New York City Fire and Police Depart-
ments—Madison Square Garden.
10:00 p. m.—All Star Entertainment—Madison Square Garden.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1937
PLACE: METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE8 :30 a. m.—Music.
9:00 a. m.—Call to Order—Harry W. Colmery, National Commander.
Advancement of Colors.
Invocation—Rev. Bryan H. Keathley, National Chaplain.
Presentation of Distinguished Guests:
Reports of Convention Committees
:
Constitutional Amendments (Second Reading)
Announcement of Trophy Awards:(a) Bands(b) Drum and Bugle Corps
(c) Rifle Drill Teams(d) Golf Tournament(e) Color Guard(f) Sons of The American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps
(g) Post History Contest.
Unfinished Business
:
New Business:
Election of Officers.
Presentation of Colors to Outgoing National Commander.
Presentation of Colors to Incoming National Commander.
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
8:00 p. m.—Amateur National Boxing Tournament under auspices of Met-ropolitan A. A. U.—Madison Square Garden Bowl, LongIsland City.
(The National Executive Committee will meet within twenty-four hours
after the adjournment of the National Convention, upon call of the National
Commander.)
16
NATIONAL OFFICERS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
Top, left to right: Mrs. Wilber DeWeese, Vice President, Central Division; Mrs. Glenn A. Snodgrass, VicePresident, Western Division; Mrs. Ella A. O’Brien, Vice President, Northwestern Division.
Circle: Mrs. Gwendolyn Wiggin MacDowell, Secretary.
2nd row, left to right: Mrs. John Allison Hardy, Vice President, Southern Division; Mrs. Janies J. Bromley,Vice President, Eastern Division.
Bottom row: Mrs. Thomas H. Johnson, Historian; Mrs. Thomas J. Giblin, Chaplain; Mrs. Cecilia Wenz,Treasurer.
OFFICIAL PROGRAM
Seventeenth National Convention
THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
NEW YORK, N. Y.
September 20-23, 1937
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1937
10:30 a. m.—National Executive Committee Meeting—Hotel Astor, College
Hall, Eighth Floor.
11:00 a. m.—Department Presidents’ Conference—Hotel Astor.
Small Departments, Art Nouveau Room—Mrs. Harold L.
Cook, Chairman.Medium Departments, Terrace Room—Mrs. J. E. Damron,
Chairman.Large Departments, Yacht Room—Mrs. Lawrence Smith,
Chairman.
12 :00 a. m.—Fidac Breakfast—Roof Garden, Elotel Astor.
Mrs. S. Alford Blackburn, American Vice President Fidac
Auxiliary and Chairman Fidac Committee.
Mrs. Margaret Wagner, Local Chairman.
2 :00 p. m.—Convention Committee Meetings—Hotel Astor.
Americanism: Mrs. T. A. King, Chairman, East Ball Room,Eighth Floor.
Community Service, Music, Emblem, Trophies and Awards:Mrs. Wm. Glenn Slithers, Chairman, North Ball Room,Eighth Floor.
Finance: Mrs. O. L. Bodenhamer, Chairman, North Gar-den, Tenth Floor.
Legislative: Mrs. Louis Lemstra, Chairman, College Hall,
Eighth Floor.
Membership: Mrs. J. H. Turnbull, Chairman, Terrace
Room, Mezzanine.Permanent Organization : Mrs. A. J. Mathebat, Chairman,Art Noveaux, Eighth Floor.
Poppy: Mrs. J. B. Dunn, Chairman, South Garden, TenthFloor.
Rehabilitation: Mrs. James Morris, Chairman, Rose Room,First Floor.
Rules: Mrs. Willis C. Reed, Chairman, Yacht Room, Eighth
Floor.
19
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AUXILIARY (Continued)
2:30 p. m.— Credentials: Miss Blanche W. Scallen, Chairman, YachtRoom, Eighth Floor.
Education of War Orphans: Mrs. Samuel Blakeslee, Chair-
man, Art Nouveaux, Eighth Floor.
3:00 p. m.— Pages: Mrs. Franklin P. Bowersox, National Chairman;Mrs. Robert Armstrong, National Vice Chairman; Mrs.Elizabeth Burdett, Local Committee Chairman — Ball
Room, First Floor.
National President’s Pages: Mrs. Charles Tucker, Mrs. RaeAshton, Mrs. Richard Redwood, Mrs. John K. Sawyer.
4:00 p. m.—Pages’ Tea, Florentine Room at Schrafft’s, 220 West 57th
Street, New York City—Miss Mary Bissell, Chairman.
4:30 p. m.—Convention Committee Meetings—Hotel Astor.
Child Welfare: Mrs. Harold Diers, Chairman, Rose Room,First Floor.
Constitution and By-Laws: Mrs. Jonathan E. Wheatley,
Chairman, Yacht Room, Eighth Floor.
Fidac: Mrs. S. Alford Blackburn, Chairman, North Garden,
Tenth Floor.
Historians: Mrs. Thomas H. Johnson, National Historian,
Art Nouveaux, Eighth Floor.
Junior Activities: Mrs. A. B. Weyer, Chairman, South Gar-
den, Tenth Floor.
National Defense: Mrs. Malcolm Douglas, Chairman,
North Ball Room, Eighth Floor.
National Publication: Mrs. Wm. H. Biester, Jr., Chairman,
Terrace Room, Mezzanine.
Radio: Mrs. Wm. Corwith, Chairman, East Ball Room,Eighth Floor.
Resolutions: Mrs. Eben P. Keen, Chairman, College Hall,
Eighth Floor.
5 :00 p. m.—Eight and Forty Pouvoir Meeting—Hotel Astor.
Mrs. Mollie Averill, Chapeau National
Mrs. Margaret Delles, Secretaire Nationale
7 :00 p. m.—Department Secretaries’ Dinner—House of Cribari.
Miss Ann Cross, Permanent Secretary of Department Secre-
taries’ Association
Mrs. Edwin W. Ashby, Local Chairman
8 :00 p. m.—Religious and Patriotic Service—Madison Square Garden.
8 :30 p. m.—Past Presidents’ Parley Meeting and Supper—Hotel Astor.
Mrs. Robert Walbridge, National Parley Chairman
Mrs. J. W. Macauley, National Parley Secretary
Mrs. Elizabeth Grieve, General Chairman
20:
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AUXILIARY (Continued)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1937
9:00 a. m.—Attendance at National Convention of The American Legion
—
Madison Square Garden.
1 :20 p. m.—Opening Session, National Convention, American Legion Aux-iliary—Grand Ball Room, Hotel Astor.
1 :30 p. m.—Processional of National Officers and Distinguished Guests.
1 :45 p. m.—Call to Order by the National President, Mrs. Oscar W. Hahn.
Advance of the Colors.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, led by Mrs. T. A. King,
National Americanism Chairman.
Invocation—Mrs. Thomas J. Giblin, National Chaplain.
Solo—“The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Reading of the Call to the Convention—Mrs. GwendolynWiggin MacDowell, National Secretary.
Greetings from the Department of New York, AmericanLegion Auxiliary—Mrs. Clyde Kernahan, Past Depart-
ment President.
Presentation of Convention Chairmen by the National Chair-
man of the Convention—Mrs. Wm. Corwith.
Reports
:
National Secretary, Mrs. Gwendolyn Wiggin MacDowellNational Treasurer, Mrs. Cecilia WenzNational Historian, Mrs. Thomas H. Johnson
Address: Annual Report of the National President, Mrs.Oscar W. Hahn.
3:30 p. m.—Music: Prize-winning Glee Club for 1936, Plymouth, Penn-
sylvania.
Address: Lloyd Wampler, Governor of Hoosier Boys’ State.
Address: National Commander of The American Legion,
Mr. Harry W. Colmery.
Greetings: National Vice Presidents, American Legion
Auxiliary
Mrs. James J. Bromley, Eastern Division
Mrs. Wilbur S. DeWeese, Central Division
Mrs. John Allison Hardy, Southern Division
Mrs. Glenn A. Snodgrass, Western Division
Mrs. Ella O’Brien, Northwestern Division
Greetings: Inter-Allied President, Fidac Auxiliary—Mrs.
Joseph H. Thompson.Greetings: American Vice President, Fidac Auxiliary—Mrs.
S. Alford Blackburn.
Greetings: First National President, American Legion Aux-iliary—Mrs. Lowell F. Hobart.
Presentation of Past National Presidents:
Mrs. Franklin Lee Bishop
21
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AUXILIARY (Continued)
Mrs. O. D. Olipahnt
Mrs. Eliza London Shepard
Mrs. J. W. MacauleyMrs. Robert WalbridgeMrs. Boyce Ficklen, Jr.
Mrs. Donald Macrae, Jr.
Mrs. Robert Lincoln HoyalMrs. Frederick C. Williams
Mrs. S. Alford Blackburn
Mrs. Wm. H. Biester, Jr.
Mrs. Albin Charles Carlson
Mrs. Melville MucklestoneDistinguished Guest Chairman, American Legion Auxiliary
—
Mrs. Frederick C. Williams.
Presentation of Distinguished Guests.
Reports of Convention Committees:
Permanent Organization : Mrs. A. J. Mathebat, ChairmanCredentials: Miss Blanche W. Scallen, ChairmanRules: Mrs. Willis C. Reed, ChairmanAmericanism: Mrs. T. A. King, ChairmanEducation of War Orphans: Mrs. Samuel Blakeslee,
ChairmanFidac: Mrs. S. Alford Blackburn, ChairmanJunior Activities: Mrs. A. B. Weyer, ChairmanMembership: Mrs. J. H. Turnbull, ChairmanPoppy: Mrs. J. B. Dunn, ChairmanRadio: Mrs. Wm. Corwith, Chairman
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
3 :30 p. m.—Gold Star Tea, Roosevelt House—Mrs. Helen Conway, Chair-
man.
4:00 p. m.—National Music Contest, Columbia Little Theater—Mrs. Till-
man Jones, National Chairman; Mrs. Bertha Ketcham, Local
Chairman.
4 :00 p. m.—Eight and Forty Marche-—South Salon, Hotel Astor.
8 :00 p. m.—Divisional Caucuses—Hotel Astor.
Mrs. James J. Bromley, Vice President, Eastern Division
—
East Ball Room, Eighth Floor.
Mrs. Wilbur S. DeWeese, Vice President, Central Division
—Terrace Room, Mezzanine.
Mrs. John Allison Hardy, Vice President, Southern Division
—Rose Room, First Floor.
Mrs. Glenn A. Snodgrass, Vice President, Western Division
—Coral Room, First Floor.
Mrs. Ella O’Brien, Vice President, Northwestern Division
—
College Hall, Eighth Floor.
8 :30 p. m.—Eight and Forty Dinner—North Ball Room, Eighth Floor,
Hotel Astor.
22
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AUXILIARY (Continued)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1937
8 :00 a. m.—Aloha Breakfast—North Garden, Hotel Astor—Mrs. Lowell
F. Hobart, Chairman; Mrs. May Cobb, Local Chairman.
Adjourned Committee Meetings as necessary.
9 :00 a. m.—Parade.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
8 :00 a. m.—Convention Convenes—Grand Ball Room, Hotel Astor.
Call to Order by the National President, Mrs. Oscar W.Hahn.
Advance of the Colors.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, led by Mrs. T. A. King,
National Americanism Chairman.
Invocation—Mrs. Thomas J. Giblin, National Chaplain.
Nomination of National Officers.
Nomination of American Vice President, Fidac Auxiliary.
Report of Convention Committees:
Community Service, Music, Emblem, Trophies and
Awards: Mrs. Wm. G. Suthers, ChairmanEmblem, Trophies and Awards: Mrs. Alexander Fraser,
Vice Chairman, in charge of Emblem, Trophies andAwards
Music: Mrs. Tillman Jones, Vice President in charge of
Music
Music by the Winning Glee Club.
Report of Convention Committees:
Child Welfare : Mrs. Harold Diers, ChairmanConstitution and By-Laws: Mrs. Jonathan E. Wheatley,Chairman
Finance: Mrs. O. L. Bodenhamer, Chairman
Music by the Winning Trio.
Report of Convention Committees:
Legislative: Mrs. Louis Lemstra, ChairmanNational Defense: Mrs. Malcolm Douglas, ChairmanNational Publication: Mrs. Wm. H. Biester, Jr., Chair-
manRehabilitation: Mrs. James Morris, Chairman
Music by the Winning Quartette.
Presentation of the Second Annual Radio Award —Mrs. William H. Corwith, Chairman, National RadioCommittee.
23
OFFICIAL PROGRAM, AUXILIARY (Continued)
1 1 :00 a. m.—Address by Distinguished Guest.
Report of Past Presidents’ Parley—Mrs. Robert Walbridge,Chairman.
Report of Eight and Forty—Mrs. Mollie Averill, ChapeauNationale.
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
4:00 p. m.—Eight and Forty Pouvoir Meeting—Hotel Astor.
7 :30 p. m.—States’ Dinner—Grand Ball Room, Hotel Astor.
Mrs. F. Trubee Davison, Honorary Chairman
Mrs. Ella Ransom, Chairman
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1937
8 :00 a. m.—Convention Convenes—Grand Ball Room, Hotel Astor.
Call to Order by the National President, Mrs. Oscar W.Hahn.
Advance of the Colors.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, led by Mrs. T. A. King,
National Americanism Chairman.
Invocation—Mrs. Thomas J. Giblin, National Chaplain.
Election of National Officers.
Election of American Vice President, Fidac Auxiliary.
Unfinished Business.
Report of Convention Committees:
Constitution and By-Laws: Mrs. Jonathan E. Wheatley,
ChairmanResolutions: Mrs. Eben P. Keen, Chairman
New Business.
Introduction of Newly Elected National Commander of TheAmerican Legion.
Installation of Officers—Mrs. Lowell F. Hobart, Past Na-tional President.
Presentation of Colors to Retiring President—Mrs. Melville
Mucklestone, Past National President.
Retirement of Colors.
Adjournment.
Parliamentarian : Mrs. Harry Harvey Thomas.
Post-Convention Meeting of the National Executive Com-mittee—College Hall, Hotel Astor.
24
OFFICIAL PROGRAM
LEGION WOMEN'S ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1937
10:00 a. m. to 10 p. m.—The Overseas Service League, Inc., 315 Lexington
Avenue (Red Cross Bldg.), will keep “Open House” Sep-
tember 19th through Thursday 23rd where Legionnaires maymeet their families, friends and buddies, or renew old friend-
ships with the overseas Red Cross Women.
Sunday, September 19, 1937
6:00 p. m.—The National Yeomen F annual meeting and Reunion Dinner,
Hotel Martinique, Broadway and 32nd Street.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1937
7:00 a. m.—A memorial mass, Saint Frances of Assisi Church, 135 West31st Street.
8 :00 to 8 :30 a. m.—Religious service, “Little Church Around the Corner,”
1 East 29th Street.
Monday, September 20, 1937
6 :45 p. m.—Legion Women’s Reunion and Banquet, Hotel Biltmore, 43rdStreet and Madison Avenue.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1937
7:30 a. m.—The National Organization of World War Nurses (Head-quarters Park Central Hotel) Annual Reunion Breakfast,
Hotel Pennsylvania, followed by Annual Meeting.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
3:00 to 6:00 p. m.—The Jane A. Delano Post No. 344, of The AmericanLegion of New York City—Tea for Legion Women, the
garden Atop the British Empire Bldg., Rockefeller Center,
620 Fifth Avenue.
Wednesday, September 22, 1937
10:00 a. m. - 10:00 p. m.—The Women’s Overseas Service League, 283 Lex-
ington Avenue (Soldiers and Sailors Club)—At Home to
Legionnaires and friends.
25
HEADQUARTERS PARADE COMMITTEE30 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA
PARADE COMMITTEE
HON. J. RAY MURPHY, Honorary Grand Marshal
MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM N. HASKELL,Chairman and Grand Marshal
COLONEL JOSEPH A. S. MUNDY, Chief of Staff
LIEUTENANT COLONEL HAMPTON ANDERSON,Assistant Chief of Staff
LIEUTENANT COLONEL GERARE) W. KELLEY,Adjutant General
PARADE ORDER
The instructions contained herein will govern the official parade of the
Nineteenth National Convention of the American Legion.
TIME:
(a) The leading elements of the parade will move promptly from
the initial point at 9:00 a. m., Tuesday, September 21, 1937, regardless of
weather conditions.
(b) The time and place of assembly for each department or element of
the parade is shown in detail on the map herewith and in Paragraph 5 of this
order.
ROUTE: The parade will start at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue, and
proceed north on Fifth Avenue, disbanding on streets leading East, between
73rd and 79th Streets, as indicated on the Parade Map herewith.
ASSEMBLY AREA: (a) Assembly areas for all departments are as
indicated in the Parade Map herewith and in Paragraph 5 of this order. Guides
for each department will be present at the various hotels to assist visiting
Legionnaires to reach assembly points.
26
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
(b) Circulation:
Fifth Avenue: Two way traffic until 8:30 a. m. After that hour
restricted to parade movement.
Madison, Lexington, Third and Second Avenues: Two way traf-
fic at all times, under police control.
34th, 42nd, 57th and 59th Streets: Two way traffic at all times,
under police control.
32nd and 33rd Streets: Each one way traffic under police control.
The following streets, between Second and Fifth Avenues, are
closed to parade movements (assembly and disbandment pur-
poses) during the hours of assembly as indicated in Paragraph 5:
26th Street
27th Street
28th Street
29th Street
30th Street
31st Street
73rd Street
74th Street
75th Street
76th Street
77th Street
78th Street
79th Street
ORGANIZATION : The order in which departments or other elements
will appear in the parade is shown in detail on the Parade Map. In order to
regulate and facilitate the march of the parade, the various elements have been
grouped into divisions, each under a division marshal. For ready reference the
composition of these divisions, showing the order of march, and time and place
of assembly for the various elements, is shown in the following Organization
and March Table:
27
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
ORGANIZATION AND MARCH TABLE
1st DIVISION
Unit Time Place of Assembly
Mounted Escort, N. Y. City 8 :30 A. M.Police
Combined American Legion 8 :30 A. M.Posts of New York City
Police DepartmentGrand Marshall and Staff
Honorary Grand Marshaland Staffs
Detachments U. S. Army, 8 :30 A. M.Navy and Marines
Madison Square Park, West Side.
East 26th Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
East 26th Street, facing west, headof column at Lexington Avenue.
2nd DIVISION
National Champion Drum 8:30 A. M.and Bugle Corps
National Colors, with Na- 8:30 A. M.tional Rifle Team as Escort
to the ColorsNational CommanderNational Champion Ameri-can Legion Band
Past National CommandersForeign Departments: Alas- 8:30 A. M.
ka, Canada, France, Ha-waii, Italy, Mexico, Pan-ama, Philippine Islands,
Puerto Rico.
East 27th Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
East 27th Street, facing west, headof column at Madison Avenue.
East 27th Street, facing west, in rear
of “E”.
3rd DIVISION
Mississippi 8:45 A. M.
Vermont 8:45 A. M.
North Dakota 8:45 A. M.
Nevada 8:45 A. M.
Iowa 8:45 A. M.
Nebraska 8:45 A. M.
Idaho 8:45 A. M.
Tennessee 8:45 A. M.
Arizona 8:45 A. M.
South Dakota 8:45 A. M.New Hampshire 8:45 A. M.
Maine 8:45 A. M.
East 27th Street, facing west, headof column at Fourth Avenue.
East 27th Street, in rear of Missis-
sippi.
East 27th Street, in rear of Vermont.
East 27th Street, in rear of NorthDakota.
East 27th Street, facing west, headof column at Lexington Avenue.
East 28th Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
East 28th Street, in rear of Nebraska.
East 28th Street, facing west, headof column at Madison Avenue.
East 28th Street, in rear of Ten-nessee.
East 28th Street, in rear of Arizona.
East 28th Street, facing west, headof column at Fourth Avenue.
East 28th Street, facing west, headof column at Lexington Avenue.
28
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
4th DIVISION
Unit Time Place of Assembly
Indiana 9:30 A. M. East 28th Street, facing west, headof column at Third Avenue.
Wisconsin 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
Florida 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, facing west, headof column at Madison Avenue.
South Carolina 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Florida.
Louisiana 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, facing west, headof column at Fourth Avenue.
Minnesota 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Louisi-
ana.
Oklahoma 9:30 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Min-nesota.
5th DIVISION
Kansas 10:15 A. M East 29th Street, facing west, headof column at Lexington Avenue.
Montana 10:15 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Kansas.
Delaware 10:15 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Mon-tana.
Arkansas 10:15 A. M. East 29th Street, in rear of Dela-ware.
North Carolina 10:15 A. M. East 30th Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
Oregon 10:15 A. M. East 30th Street, in rear of NorthCarolina.
Illinois 10:15 A. M. East 30th Street, facing west, headof column at Madison Avenue.
Alabama 10:15 A. M. East 30th Street, facing west, headof column at Third Avenue.
6th DIVISION
District of Columbia 11 :00 A. M. East 31st Street, facing west, headof column at Fifth Avenue.
Georgia 11:00 A. M. East 31st Street, facing west, headof column at Madison Avenue.
West Virginia 11:00 A. M. East 31st Street, in rear of Georgia.
Washington 11:00 A. M. East 31st Street, facing west, headof column at Fourth Avenue.
California 11:00 A. M. East 31st Street, in rear of Wash-
Ohio
Wyoming
11:00 A. M.
11:00 A. M.
29
mgton.
East 31st Street, in rear of Cali-
fornia.
East 31st Street, in rear of Ohio.
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
7th DIVISION
Unit Time Place of Assembly
Connecticut 12:00 A. M. East 26th Street, facing west, head
of column at Fifth Avenue.
Kentucky 12:00 A. M. East 26th Street, in rear of Con-
necticut.
Pennsylvania 12:00 A.M. East 26th Street, facing west, head
of column at Fourth Avenue.
8th DIVISION
Massachusetts 1:15 P. M. East 27tli Street, facing west, head
of column at Fifth Avenue.
Colorado 1:15 P. M. East 27th Street, facing west, head
of column at Third Avenue.
New Mexico 1:15 P.M. East 27th Street, in rear of Colorado.
Virginia 1:15 P.M. East 27th Street, in rear of NewMexico.
9th DIVISION
Michigan 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, facing west, head
of column at Fifth Avenue.
Utah 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, facing west, head
of column at Madison Avenue.
Missouri 2:15 P. M. East 28th Street, in rear of Utah.
Rhode Island 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, in rear of Missouri.
New Jersey 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, facing west, head
of column at Fourth Avenue.
Maryland 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, facing west, head
of column at Third Avenue.
Texas 2:15 P.M. East 28th Street, in rear of Mary-
land.
10th DIVISION
New York 3 :30 P. M. East 29th Street.
4:15 P.M. East 30th Street.
5 :00 P. M. East 31st Street.
Heads of all columns at Fifth Ave-
nue, facing west, each column
extending to Second Avenue.
30
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
FORMATION : The units of the parade will form for marching as
follows
:
(a) Police escort (As directed by the Commander thereof).
(b) Grand Marshal and Staff and Honorary Grand Marshal and Staff
(As directed by the Grand Marshal).
(c) Military and Naval Escort (As directed by the Commanders of the
respective elements).
(d) National Champion Drum and Bugle Corps (As directed by the
Commander).
(e) National Colors, National Rifle Team, and National Commander
(Colors as directed by Commander).
(f) National Champion American Legion Band (As directed by the Com-
mander).
(g) Past National Commanders in automobiles. (Past National Com-
manders usually march with their Departments.)
(h) American Legion Departments (including uniformed bodies of the
American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion) will
march in platoons of thirty-two (32), formed in two ranks, sixteen
(16) abreast, one pace distance between front and rear ranks.
(i) Massed colors: Sixteen abreast, The department and post colors of
each department of the American Legion and the department and unit
colors of each department of the American Legion Auxiliary will be
massed at the head of each department delegation. This must include
colors of all musical organizations.
(j) Bands and Drum Corps: As directed by drum majors.
(k) Authorized floats and automobiles: In single column. Entry of floats
in the parade is restricted to those of an American Legion or patriotic
character. No other floats, automobiles or buses will be permitted.
REVIEWING AND GRAND STANDS: The official reviewing stand
for the National Commander and his party will be The Plaza, 59th Street and
Fifth Avenue.
ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN PARADE: With the excep-
tion of the police and military and naval escort and distinguished guests, eligi-
bility to participate in the parade is limited to the members of the American
Legion, uniformed bodies of the American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the
American Legion.
31
PARADE ORDER (Continued)
FIRST-AID AND CONVENIENCE STATIONS: First Aid and
Convenience Stations in the Assembly Areas and along the route of march will
be indicated by appropriate markers or signs.
PARADE OFFICIALS : In addition to his general and personal staff,
the Grand Marshal will be assisted in the conduct of the parade by other
officials designated as regulating officers, division marshals, liaison officers
and guides.
(a) CHIEF REGULATING OFFICER, ASSEMBLY AREA:Colonel Mills Miller
(b) CHIEF REGULATING OFFICER, LINE OF MARCH:Colonel Foster G. Hetzel
(c) CHIEF REGULATING OFFICER, REVIEWING STAND:Colonel Redmond F. Kernan
(d) CHIEF REGULATING OFFICER, DISBANDING AREA:Colonel Alexander E. Anderson
(e) DIVISION MARSHALS: The following are designated as Divi-
sion Marshals
:
Lieutenant Colonel Martin H. Meaney
Lieutenant Colonel Hiram W. Taylor
Lieutenant Colonel Samuel D. Davies
Lieutenant Colonel Joseph W. Utter
Lieutenant Colonel Charles A. Luckhurst
Lieutenant Colonel J. Gardiner Conroy
Lieutenant Colonel Gilbert Ackerman
Lieutenant Colonel Theodore J. Krokus
Lieutenant Colonel Alfred D. Reutershan
Colonel Clarence H. Higginson
1st Division
2nd Division
3rd Division
4th Division
5th Division
6th Division
7th Division
8th Division
9th Division
10th Division
Embraced in this order are the Parade Map and the march table. The
march table contains information as to assembly areas and the order of march.
The Parade Map shows graphically the parade route. The number appearing
in front of the name of each unit refers to the corresponding number on the
parade map, and shows the approximate location of the assembly area. Exact
location will be indicated at the assembly area by a marker bearing the name
of the unit.
Headquarters of the Grand Marshal and Parade Committee are located at
30 Rockefeller Plaza.
32
I
NATIONAL OFFICERS, LA SOCIETE DES 40 HOMMES ET 8 CHEVAUXTop: William G. Peterson, Conducteur Nationale.
Center row, left to right: Walter C. Kirschner, Grand Chef de Gare, 1937; Harry E. Ransom, Chef de
Chemin de Fer; N. Carl Nielsen, Commissaire Intendant Nationale.Bottom: Charles W. Ardery, Correspondant Nationale.
NATIONAL OFFICERS
La Societe Des 40 Hommes Et 8 Chevaux
Chef de Chemin de Fer . . Harry E. Ransom, West Alice, Wise.
Sous Chefs de Chemin de Fer . . Lyon W. Brandon, Como, Mississippi
Wm. C. Petit, Detroit, Mich.
G. M. Carroll, Huntington, W. Va.
Clifford Ragan, Evanston, Wyoming
B. Fred Gentile, Cranston, R. I.
Heiskell Harvill, Tampa, Fla.
Commissaire Intendant Nationale. . . .N. Carl Nielsen, Gig Harbor, Wash.
Correspondant Nationale . .Chas. W. Ardery, Indianapolis, Ind.
Advocat Nationale . . Leo J. Crowley, Denver, Colo.
Conducteur Nationale . .Walter G. Peterson, Brooklyn, N. Y.
Historien Nationale . . Paul J. McGahan, Washington, D. C.
Aumonier Nationale . .Rev. S. J. Ryder, Ft. Wayne, Ind.
Gardes de la Porte Nationaux . .Clifton L. Baker, E. Orange, N. J.
C. D. Bennett, Wesleco, Texas
Drapeau Nationale . .James R. Sullivan, Rockford, 111.
Finance Committee. . . . . N. Carl Neilsen, Chairman,
Gig Harbor, Wash.
Spencer S. Eccles, Ogden, Utah
R. C. Patrick, Mason City, Iowa
Executive Committee of Cheminots
Nationaux . .Alva Bronnenberg, Versailles, Ind.
Harold W. Kenney, Dayton, Ohio
Leonard Attlequist, Aurora, 111.
Trophies and Awards Committee. .
.
. .John T. Conny, Chicago, 111.
E. Snapper Ingram, Los Angeles, Cal.
James O. Sheppard, Edgefield, S. C.
35
OFFICIAL PROGRAM
Eighteenth Promenade Nationale
LA SOCIETE DES 40 HOMMES ET 8 CHEVAUX
NEW YORK CITY
September 19-22, 1937
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1937
Registration at Legion Booths and Manhattan Opera House, on 34th
Street between 8th and 9th Avenue, adjoining Hotel New Yorker on 34th
Street. Registration fee fifty cents (50c) includes Promenade Nationale
Medal.
5:00 p. m.—Meeting of Cheminot Nationaux (Nationale Executive Com-
mittee)—Manhattan Opera House.
5 :30 p. m.—Meeting of Committee on Credentials—Manhattan Opera
House.
5 :30 p. m.—Meeting of Committee on Permanent Organization—Manhat-
tan Opera House.
5 :30 p. m|—Meeting of Committee on Rules and Order—Manhattan Opera
House.
9:00 p. m.—Promenade Nationale Opening Session—Ball Room, Manhattan
Opera House. Music by Promenade Nationale Band, Voiture
408, Rockford, Illinois.
9;30 p. m.—Call to order by Chef de Chemin de Fer Harry E. Ransom.
Advancement of Colors.
Invocation by Aumonier National Rev. Fr. S. J. Ryder.
JReading of Convention call by Correspondent National.
36
I
FORTY AND EIGHT OFFICIAL PROGRAM (Continued)
t Greetings
:
' Hon. Pelham St. George Bissell, General Chairman,
Promenade Nationale CommitteeWalter C. Kirschner, Cheminot Nationale
l Voyageur Jeremiah F. Cross, Department Commanderf
Walter G. Peterson, Conducteur Nationale
Charles L. Anderson, Grand Chef de GareAddress of Welcome:
Voyageur Fiorello H. La Guardia, Mayor of the City
k of New York.
Hon. Herbert H. Lehman, Governor of the State of
New York.
Greeting from the American Legion
:
Voyageur Harry W. Colmery, National Commander.Response by Chef de Chemin de Fer Harry E. Ransom.
11:00 p. m.—Memorial Service—Aumonier Nationale Rev. Fr. S. J. Ryder.
1 1 :30 p, m.—Report of Committees
:
1. Credentials
2. Permanent Organization
3. Rules and Order
1 1 :45 p. m.—Reports of Officers
:
1. Chef de Chemin de Fer
2. Commissaire Intendant Nationale
3. Correspondant Nationale
4. Historien Nationale
5. Advocat Nationale
6. Conducteur Nationale (Parade).
12 :00 m. —Announcements, Committee appointments, etc.
12:15 a. m.—Retirement of Colors.
|
Recess.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1937
i 9:00 a. m.—Meeting of all Committees other than Permanent Organization,
Credentials and Rules and Order—Manhattan Opera House.
1 :00 p. m.—Music by Promenade Nationale Band, Voiture 408, Rockford,
111 .
1 :30 p. m.—Call to order by Chef de Chemin de Fer Harry E. Ransom.Advancement of Colors.
Invocation by Aumonier Nationale, Rev. Fr. S. J. Ryder.
» Music by Promenade Nationale Drum and Bugle Corps,
Voiture 976, Newport News, Va.
37
FORTY AND EIGHT OFFICIAL PROGRAM (Continued)
1 :50 p. m.—Reports on Committees
:
1. Paraphernalia
2. Voiture Activities
3. Ritual
4. Finance
5. Child Welfare
6. Resolution
4:00 p. m.—Retirement of Colors.
Recess.
8 :00 p. m.—Forty and Eight Parade. Route on Eighth Avenue, from 57th
to 34th Street, west on 34th to west of Ninth Avenue dis-
banding point. .
10:00 p. m.—Forty and Eight Dinner and Show—Manhattan Opera House.
Tickets $3.00 per person.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1937
9:00 a. m.—Form with own Department for the American Legion Parade.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
9 :00 a. m.—Meetings of all Committees with unfinished business, especially
Resolutions, Constitution and Trophies and Awards Com-mittee—Manhattan Opera House.
1 :30 p. m.—Music by Promenade Nationale Band.
2 :00 p. m.—Call to order by Chef de Chemin de Fer Harry E. Ransom.Invocation by Aumonier Nationale Rev. Fr. S. J. Ryder.
2 :05 p. m.—Reports of Committees on
:
1. Resolutions (Supplementary)
2. Trophies and Awards
3. Constitution
3 :30 p. m.—New Business.
3 :45 p. m.—Election of Officers.
Retirement of Colors.
Benediction by Aumonier Nationale Rev. Fr. S. J. Ryder.
Adjournment.
Meeting of Cheminote Nationaux immediately upon adjourn-
ment of the Promenade Nationale.
38
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE
Eighteenth Promenade Nationale
NEW YORK CITY
September 20, 1937 5 P. M.
Assembly—55th Street and Eighth Avenue
Escort of Police
Honorable LEWIS J. VALENTINE, Commissioner
JOHN J. SEERY, Chief Inspector
Honorary Grand Marshal
PELHAM ST. GEORGE BISSELL, Chef de Chemin de Fer 1928
Grand Marshal
FRED M. FEUCKER, Chef de Chemin de Fer 1936
Deputy Grand Marshal
WALTER G. PETERSON, Conducteur Nationale
39
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE (Continued)
FIRST DIVISION
Assembly—55th Street and Eighth Avenue
Marshal
HEISKELL HARVILL, Sous Chef de Chemin de Fer
Promenade Nationale Band, Voiture 408, Rockford, Illinois
HARRY E. RANSOM, Chef de Chemin de Fer 1937
Chefs de Chemin de Fer Passe
Joseph A. Breen
Edward J. Eivers
George Dobson
S. M. Doyle
Charles A. Mills
John P. Conmy
E. Snapper Ingram
Charles E. Perry
William D. Lyons
Samuel Heller
John D. Crowley
National Officers
C. W. ARDERY, Correspondent
N. CARL NEILSON, Commissairre Intendant
LEO J. CROWLEY, Avocat
PAUL J. McGAHAN, Historian
REV. S. J. RYDER, Aumonier
CLIFTON L. BAKER, Garde de la Porte
C. D. BENNETT, Garde de la Porte
JAMES R. SULLIVAN, Drapeau
Promenade Nationale Drum and Bugle Corps,
Voiture 976, Newport News, Virginia
40
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE (Continued)
SECOND DIVISION
Assembly—55th Street, between 9th and 10th Avenues
Marshal
B. FRED GENTILE, Sous Chef de Chemin de Fer
1. North Carolina 2. Pennsylvania
3.
Ohio
THIRD DIVISION
Assembly, 54th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues
Marshal
CLIFF RAGAN, Sous Chef de Chemin de Fer
4. Illinois 6. California
5. Indiana 7. Massachusetts
FOURTH DIVISION
Assembly—54th Street, between 9th and 10th Avenues
Marshal
WILLIAM C. PETIT, Sous Chef de Chemin de Fer
8. Michigan 11. Washington
9. Wisconsin 12. Minnesota
10. Iowa 13. Missouri
14. West Virginia
41
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE (Continued)
FIFTH DIVISION
Assembly—53rd Street, between 8th and 10th Avenues
Marshal
G. N. JACK CARROLL
15. Texas
16. Oregon
17. Florida
18. Mississippi
19. New Jersey
20. Connecticut
21. Maine
22. Louisiana
23. Tennessee
24. Nebraska
25. Kentucky
26. Oklahoma
27. North Dakota
28. Arizona
29. Virginia
30. Arkansas
31. South Dakota
32. New Hampshire
33. Maryland53. Mexico
34. Kansas
35. Colorado
36. Georgia
37. Nevada
38. District of Columbia
39. South Carolina
40. Idaho
41. Utah
42. Vermont
43. Montana
44. Delaware
45. Wyoming
46. Rhode Island
47. Alaska
48. Hawaii
49. Alabama
50. France
51. Panama
52. New Mexico
SIXTH DIVISION
Assembly—52nd Street, between 8th and 10th Avenues
Marshal
LYON W. BRANDON, Sous Chef de Chemin de Fer
54. New York
Rear Guard of Police
42
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE (Continued)
GENERAL PARADE ORDERS No. I
1. The parade will be held Monday evening, September 20, 1937. The
parade will be formed in six (6) divisions, each division to be at its designated
station ready to move out at 5 p. m.
2. Assembly will be from 52nd to 55th Streets, west of 8th Avenue, with
the head of the column resting on 8th Avenue. The parade will move south
on 8th Avenue to 34th Street; then west on 34th Street to 10th Avenue, where
the parade will disband.
3. Uniform for the parade will be smocks and chapeaux, insofar as
possible.
4. Massed Colors and Standards shall be at the head of the respective
Departments, except when they are included as part of a musical organization.
5. Regulations for the formation of the parade are as follows
:
(A) All department delegations will be headed by their Grande Officers
and will march eight abreast with sixty inches between ranks.
(B) The following distances will be maintained:
(a) Twenty paces between divisions;
(b) Ten paces between Staff Officers;
(c) Ten paces between Grande Voitures;
(d) Six paces between Grande Voiture Officers and front rank of their
Grande Voitures;
(e) Six paces in the front and rear of each feature;
(f) Guidon bearers will march three paces to the rear and one pace to
the right of their leaders.
(C) All musical units for all divisions will form with their respective
states, in the division to which assigned.
43
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE (Continued)
(D) Box cars and mobile features will form in 56th Street between 8th
and 9th Avenues. They will form in rotation according to location of Depart-
ment. All box cars will follow their respective states. No one other than train
crews will be permitted to ride on box cars.
(E) Each Grande Chef de Gare will assign three contact Voyageurs
who will act as liaison messengers between the Division Marshal and their
Grande Voiture. Such Voyageurs will report to the Division Marshal at
4 :30 p. m.
(F) The Marshal for each division will report to the Parade Chief of
Staff the strength of the Grande Voiture and number of musical units, respec-
tively, as soon as the formation of the division is completed—but in any event,
not later than 4:30 p. m.
(G) First aid stations with ambulances with doctors and nurses for first
aid work will be stationed along the line of march.
(H) No motor vehicles will be permitted in the parade without official
authorization from the Chief of Staff.
(I) Message Center will be at the southwest corner of 52nd Street and
8th Avenue. .
(J) The reviewing stand will be located in front of the Manhattan Opera
House, between 8th and 9th Avenues on 34th Street.
(K) All box cars, locomotives and ancient and decrepit automobiles will
report immediately upon arrival at Box Car Headquarters on the special park-
ing area under the West Side Highway, between 24th and 33rd Streets, where
ample parking space will be available throughout the entire convention. OnMonday afternoon, September 20, 1937, at 1 :30 p. m., the judging of Loco-
motive and Box Cars as well as old Autos will be held. All those desiring to
enter must be on the lot by 12:00 noon of that day. Peter V. Curry, Chair-
man of the Parade Committee, will be in charge and will issue all parade
instructions.
PETER V. CURRY,
Chairman , Parade Committee.WALTER BLUMENTHAL,
Chief of Staff.
ALBERT E. SCHAEFER,
Aide de Camp.
44
ASSEMBLY STATIONS
Grand Voitnre Div. Location
Alabama 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Alaska 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Arizona 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Arkansas 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
California 3rd 54th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Colorado 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Connecticut 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Delaware 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
District of Columbia 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Florida 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
France 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Georgia 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Hawaii 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Idaho 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Illinois 3rd 54th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Indiana 3rd 54th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Iowa 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Kansas 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Kentucky 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Louisiana 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Maine 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Maryland 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Massachusetts 3rd 54th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
Mexico 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Michigan 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Minnesota 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Mississippi 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
45
ASSEMBLY STATIONS (Continued)
Missouri 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Montana 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Nebraska 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Nevada 5tli 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
New Hampshire 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
New Jersey 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
New Mexico 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
New York 6th 52nd Street between, 8th and 10th Avenues
North Carolina 2nd 55th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
North Dakota 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Ohio 2nd 55th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Oklahoma 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Oregon 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Panama 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Pennsylvania 2nd 55th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Rhode Island 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
South Carolina 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
South Dakota 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Tennessee 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Texas 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Utah 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Vermont 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Virginia 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
Washington 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
West Virginia 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Wisconsin 4th 54th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues
Wyoming 5th 53rd Street between 8th and 10th Avenues
WALTER BLUMENTHAL,Chief of Staff.
PETER V. CURRY,Chairman, Parade Committee.
46
OFFICERS, LA BOUTIQUE DES HUIT CHAPEAUX ET QUARANTE FEMMESCenter: Mrs. Mollie E. Averill, Le Chapeau Nationale. Left: Mrs. Helen O’Brien Daly, Chairman 8 and 40.
Right: Mrs. Margaret Delies, Le Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale.
OFFICERS
LA BOUTIQUE des HUIT CHAPEAUX et QUARANTE FEMMES
1936-1937
Le Chapeau Nationale ( President ) Mrs. Mollie E. Averill
La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale {Secretary-Treasurer)
Mrs. Margaret Delles
Les Demi-Chapeaux Nationaux ( Vice-Presidents ) . .Mrs. Florence Sloan
Mrs. Wilda Fitzgibbon
Mrs. Jessie Huish
Mrs. Zella Scofield
Mrs. Jessie Pung
L’Archiviste Nationale ( Historian ) Mrs. Corinne Craig
L’Aumonier Nationale ( Chaplain ) Mrs. Esther Marksbery
La Concierge Nationale ( Sergeant-at-Arms ) Mrs. Alma Hunt
La Surintendante Nationale {Mistress of Ceremonies)
Mrs. Helen McGlynn
48
OFFICIAL PROGRAM
Le Marche Nationale
La Boutique des Huit Chapeaux et Quarante Femmes
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1937
REGISTRATION—LOBBY OF HOTEL ASTOR
5:00 p. m.—NATIONALE POUVOIR MEETING—HOTELASTOR.
Call to Order by Le Chapeau Nationale Mollie E. Averill.
Pledge to Flag, led by La Concierge Nationale Alma Hunt.
Invocation by L’Aumonier Nationale Esther Marksbery.
Roll Call of States by La Secretaire Margaret Delles.
Ratification of Appointment of Marche Parliamentarian.
Introduction of National Officers, Marche Chairman and
Committee.
Report of Finance Committee, Chairman Mary. Ellen
Macafee.
Consideration of Budget prepared by Finance Committee.
Reading of Proposed Amendments to Nationale Constitution
and By-Laws, Chairman Vinetta Montgomery.
Reading of Resolutions.
New Business.
Adjournment.
7:00 p.m.—DIVISIONAL CAUCUSES TO ELECT LES DEMI-CHAPEAUX NATIONAUX, from Eastern, Southern,
Central, Northwestern, and Western Divisions, respectively.
49
EIGHT AND FORTY OFFICIAL PROGRAM (Continued)
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1937
REGISTRATION—LOBBY OF HOTEL ASTOR.
4:00 p.m.—LE MARCHE NATIONALE, OPENING SESSION,
ROSE ROOM, HOTEL ASTOR.
Processional of National Officers and Distinguished Guests.
Call to Order by Le Chapeau Nationale Mollie E. Averill.
Colors Advanced.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, led by La Concierge
Nationale Alma Hunt.
Invocation by L’Aumonier Nationale Esther Marksbery.
“Flander’s Fields” by Le Demi-Chapeau Nationale Zella
Scofield.
“America’s Answer” by Le Demi-Chapeau Nationale Jessie
Huish.
Song, “Long, Long Trail,” led by Marche Music Chairman.
Roll Call by La Secretaire Nationale Margaret Delles.
Reading of Call to Le Marche Nationale.
Reading of Minutes of Pouvoir Meeting on September 19,
1937.
Introduction of Les Officers Nationaux, Les Chapeaux
Nationaux Passes, Distinguished Guests, Honorary Pages,
and Le Marche personnel.
Greetings from Chairman American Legion Auxiliary Con-
vention Committee, Mrs. Wm. H. Corwith.
Greetings from General Chairman of Le Marche Nationale,
Mrs. Helen O’Brien Daly, and introduction of her vice-
chairman and committees.(
Initiation Ceremonial and Membership Obligation to Cha-
peaux Etrangers by La Surintendante Nationale Helen
McGlynn.
Reports of Committees on Permanent Organization, Rules,
and Credentials.
50
EIGHT AND FORTY OFFICIAL PROGRAM (Continued)
Greetings
:
The National Commander of The American Legion, Mr.
Harry W. Colmery.
The National President of the American Legion Auxiliary,
Mrs. Oscar W. Hahn.
Le Chef de Chemin de Fer La Societe des Quarante
Hommes et Huit Chevaux, Mr. Harry Ransome.
The Past Department President of New York, Mrs. Clyde
Kernahan.
Le Chapeau Departemental of New York, Mrs. Kathryn
Talcott.
Adoption of Printed Reports:
Report of Le Chapeau Nationale Mollie E. Averill.
Reports of Les Demi-Chapeaux Nationaux: Florence
Sloan, Eastern Division ; Wilda Fitzgibbon, Southern
Division; Jessie Huish, Central Division; Zella Scofield,
Northwestern Division, and Jessie Pung, Western
Division.
Report of La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale Margaret
Delles.
Reports of L’Archiviste Nationale Corinne Craig;
L’Aumonier Nationale Esther Marksbery; La Concierge
Nationale Alma Hunt, and La Surintendante Nationale
Helen McGlynn.
Finance Committee, Chairman Mary Ellen Macafee.
Child Welfare, Director Mildred Jones.
National Hospital Activities, Chairman Grace Miller.
Membership, Chairman Bessie Cooper.
Ritual and Regalia, Chairman Helen Vensel.
Trophies and Awards, Chairman Emma C. Puschner.
Public Relations, Chairman Ellen Louise Warren.
National Hat Box, Editor Thelma Bailey.
51
EIGHT AND FORTY OFFICIAL PROGRAM (Continued)
Memorial Service: L’Aumonier Nationale Esther Marksbery.
New Business.
Nomination and Election of Officers:
Le Chapeau Nationale
L’Archiviste Nationale
L’Aumonier Nationale
La Concierge Nationale
Ratification of election of Les Demi-Chapeaux Nationaux,
elected in Divisional Caucuses on September 19th, 1937.
Presentation of newly elected officers.
Announcements.
Colors retired.
Adjournment.
9:30 a. m.—ANNUAL BANQUET OF LA BOUTIQUE, Le Chapeau
Nationale Mollie E. Averill, Presiding.
Introduction of Distinguished Guests and Nationale Officers.
Trophies and Awards distribution.
Installation of newly elected officers.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
5:00 p. m.—NATIONALE POUVOIR MEETING—HOTELASTOR.
Call to Order by Le Chapeau Nationale Mollie E. Averill.
Unfinished business.
Presentation of newly elected officers, and new Chapeau
Nationale presides.
New business.
Adjournment.
DELEGATION HEADQUARTERS
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS—HOTEL PENNSYLVANIA
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY—HOTEL ASTOR
Porto Rico Utah Hotel
Tennessee Delaware McAlpin Hotel
Nebraska West Virginia . . . Paramount Hotel
Maine Nat’l Headquarters . . Pennsylvania Hotel
Massachusetts . . Commodore Hotel Iowa . Pennsylvania Hotel
Missouri Commodore Hotel Vermont Pennsylvania Hotel
Rhode Island Commodore Hotel Virginia . Pennsylvania Hotel
New Jersey Kansas . Pennsylvania Hotel
New Hampshire . .
.
. Commodore Hotel Nevada . Pennsylvania Hotel
Mississippi . . Governor Clinton Idaho . Pennsylvania Hotel
Alabama . . Governor Clinton Oregon . Pennsylvania Hotel
Florida Montana . Pennsylvania Hotel
Georgia . . Governor Clinton Arizona . Pennsylvania Hotel
South Dakota . . Governor Clinton California . Pennsylvania Hotel
New Mexico . . Governor Clinton Indiana . Pennsylvania Hotel
Wyoming . . Governor Clinton Foreign Depts . Pennsylvania Hotel
Maryland Imperial Hotel North Dakota . Pennsylvania Hotel
Connecticut Washington . Pennsylvania Hotel
Ohio Lincoln Hotel Indiana .... Piccadilly Hotel
North Carolina . . . . Lincoln Hotel Illinois Hotel
Colorado Michigan
Minnesota . . . Martinique Hotel Oklahoma . . New Yorker Hotel
South Carolina McAlpin Hotel New York . . New Yorker Hotel
Louisiana Wisconsin . New Yorker Hotel
Arkansas 40 and 8 . . New Yorker Hotel
Texas Pennsylvania .... Roosevelt Hotel
Dist. of Columbia . Kentuckv Shelton Hotel
53
LOCATION OF INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION
BOOTHS20 West 40th Street
(Opposite N. Y. Public Library)
Astor Hotel Grand Central Station
Biltmore Hotel New Yorker Hotel
Capitol Park Central Hotel
Commodore Hotel Pennsylvania Hotel
Dixie Hotel Roosevelt Hotel
Empire Hotel St. George Hotel
Governor Clihton Hotel Hotel Taft
Lexington Hotel City Hall
Lincoln Hotel 42nd St. and 5th Ave.
McAlpin Hotel Times Square
Cor. 135th St. and Lenox Ave. 59th St. & 5th Ave.
Pennsylvania Station
HEADQUARTERS
National Headquarters: Pennsylvania Hotel. LA-4- 1414
Auxiliary Headquarters: Astor Hotel. CI-6-51 15
Registration Headquarters: Schenley Building, 20 West 40th Street.
BR-9-2 1 10
Convention Executive Offices: 30 Rockefeller Plaza. CI-6-3355
Information: Schenley Building, 20 West 40th Street.
54
SCHEDULE OF CONTESTS
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. 1937
7 :00 a. m.—Senior Drum and Bugle Corps—Preliminaries.
Polo Grounds—155th Street and 8th Avenue.
7 :00 p. m.—Senior Drum and Bugle Corps—Finals.
Polo Grounds—155th Street and 8th Avenue.
10:00 a. m.—Senior Bands.
The Mall—Central Park.
1 :30 p. m.—Rifle Drill Team.
69th Regiment Armory—25th Street and Lexington Avenue.
2 :00 p. m.—Sons of Legionnaires Drum and Bugle Corps.
Lewisohn Stadium—138th Street and Broadway.
2 :00 p. m.—Glee Clubs.
Wanamaker’s Auditorium—8th Street and Astor Place.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1937
Parade—Junior and Sponsored Corps to be judged during
Parade.
Parade—Color Guards—Judged during Parade.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1937
10:00 a. m.—Individual Drumming.
Band Stand—Central Park.
Note. Information regarding above contests can be had by
applying at Contests’ Committee’s desk in Hotel Pennsyl-
vania. Phone LA. 4-1414.
55
FIFTH AVENUE
Fifth Avenue hears again the tread of the same marching feet; the echo of the
marching thousands who left their indelible foot prints to hallow this famous
thoroughfare.
m 1
1 1|i
IH. Util
i « R.a sr!|a » a a if;
•
a m ig . kj
i s,* a a
i a a a a
RADIO CITY
Where beauty and architecture blend with prosaic business and where the activities
preparatory to the American Legion 1937 Convention have been so successfully
carried on.
THE STATUE OF LIBERTY
The gift of France. Strikingly
of granite she bid us au revoir in
significant is this symbol of freedom. Upon her pile
1917 and 1918 and hers was the first greeting when
we returned.
APPRECIATIONThe American Legion 1937 Convention Corporation is indebted to the following for
their material assistance to the success of this Convention.
Hotel Association of New York City
Allerton House (39th Street)
BedfordBretton HallBristol
Chesterfield
CroydonDuaneEmpireFourteen East 60th Street
George WashingtonGovernor Clinton
GramatanGreystoneHalf MoonHerald SquareKenmore HallLangdonLexingtonLincoln
MadisonMadison SquareMarseilles
Martinique
McAlpinMidstonNew WestonNew YorkerPark CentralPennsylvaniaPierre
PlazaPrince GeorgeRexRitz-Carlton
RooseveltSt. GeorgeSt. RegisSavoy-PlazaSeymourSherman SquareSussexTaftTimes SquareVanderbiltWellingtonWoodstock
B. Altman & Co.Annin & Co.Mr. George Gordon BattleBickfords Inc.
Bloomingdale Bros. Inc.
Brooks Bros.
Calvert Distillers Corp.Central Greyhound Lines, Inc.
Childs CorporationHoward Chandler ChristyCity of New YorkCoastal Transit CompanyA. B. Dick & Co.Davega, Inc.
Donovan, Leisure, Newton & LunbardThomas A. Edison Inc.
The Ford Motor Co.Franke, Graef & HannonGimbel Bros., Inc.
Gulf Oil CorporationC. G. Gunthers SonsHanan & SonMr. William HaywardHearn Dept. Store
S. H. Kress & Co.
Hudson Transit LinesLord & TaylorR. H. Macy, Inc.
Madison Sq. Garden Corp.
James McCreery & Co.Melville Shoe Corp.Metropolitan Life Insurance Co.I. Miller & Sons, Inc.
New England Transportation CompanyPeck & PeckPort of N. Y. AuthorityRemington RandRevillon FreresRockefeller CenterSchenley Products CompanySeagrams Distillers Corp.Sinclair Refining Co.W. and J. SloaneFrank G. Shattuck & Co.L. C. Smith & CoronaSocony-Vacuum Oil Co.State of New YorkAbraham StrausH. Sulke & Co.Mr. J. M. SymingtonBonwit TellerTexas Oil Co.Tide Water Associated Oil
TiffanyShaw WalkerJohn WanamakerF. W. Woolworth
This brochure planned and designed by a Legionnaire.
In compliance with expressed wishes the names of those individual persons whohave made financial contributions are not listed here.
The Corporation wishes to record here its sincere thanks for their generous assistance.
The Officers and Directors of the Corporation are grateful to the various Conven-tion Committees and to the office staff for their unselfish devotion and tireless contribu-tion of time and effort to carry out the program of arrangements.
59
INDEX
AMERICAN LEGION OFFICIAL PROGRAM 13
ASSEMBLY (LEGION PARADE MAP) 33
AUXILIARY OFFICIAL PROGRAM 19
CONTEST SCHEDULE 55
DELEGATION HEADQUARTERS 53
EIGHT AND FORTY OFFICERS 48
EIGHT AND FORTY OFFICIAL PROGRAM 49
FORTY AND EIGHT OFFICERS 35
FORTY AND EIGHT PARADE ORDER 39
FORTY AND EIGHT OFFICIAL PROGRAM 36
INFORMATION BOOTHS 54
LEGION WOMEN’S ACTIVITIES 25
LINE OF MARCH (MAP) 33
PARADE ORDER, AMERICAN LEGION 26
PARADE ORDER, 40 AND 8 39
PREAMBLE 2
PROGRAM, AMERICAN LEGION 13
PROGRAM, AUXILIARY 19
PROGRAM, 40 AND 8 36
PROGRAM, 8 AND 40 49
WOMEN’S LEGION ACTIVITIES 25
60